New Tax Benefit for Senior Citizens: File Form 121 to Avoid TDS from April 2026
Turning 60 this year? Senior citizen can file Form 121 to prevent TDS for the Tax Year 2026-27; Check how to avail and key details here
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Starting April 1, 2026, senior citizens turning 60 can file Form 121 to prevent Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on interest from bank fixed deposits and other earnings. This change, part of the Income Tax Act, 2025, simplifies tax filing for retirees and pensioners across India.
- 01Form 121 replaces the old Forms 15G and 15H from April 2026.
- 02Senior citizens can file Form 121 if they turn 60 during the tax year.
- 03Income up to ₹12 lakh may be tax-free for senior citizens under the new regime.
- 04Form 121 prevents TDS on various income types, excluding professional fees.
- 05Taxpayers must disclose previous two years' income details when filing Form 121.
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From April 1, 2026, senior citizens in India will benefit from filing Form 121, a new simplified tax form that replaces Forms 15G and 15H. This form allows individuals who turn 60 during the financial year to avoid Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) on interest from bank fixed deposits and other specified income, provided their total income is below the taxable limit. Tax experts highlight that residents can claim this benefit even if their 60th birthday falls late in the financial year, treating them as senior citizens for the entire year. Under the new tax regime, senior citizens can enjoy nil tax liability on income up to ₹12 lakh (approximately $14,500 USD), which increases to ₹12.75 lakh (approximately $15,400 USD) if standard deductions apply. Form 121 covers various income types, including interest on securities and rental income, but cannot be used for professional fees. Taxpayers must also disclose their income details from the previous two years when filing this form. Experts recommend filing Form 121 early in April to prevent TDS deductions from the start of the financial year.
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This new tax provision is expected to significantly benefit senior citizens and retirees, allowing them to retain more of their income without TDS deductions.
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